#Japan #Tokyo #Nankatsu SC #Fire Hydrant Signage #MARS attack

Fire Hydrant Signage Co. Partners with Nankatsu SC

On August 25, Fire Hydrant Signage Co. based in Chuo, Tokyo, officially installed advertising boards in support of the soccer club Nankatsu SC, led by the renowned manga artist Yoichi Takahashi, known for his creation of Captain Tsubasa. These boards, designed by the Tokyo-based design firm Mars Attack, feature the team's name and logo on one side, while the sponsor's name takes the other side.

About Fire Hydrant Signage

Fire Hydrant Signage refers to signage that indicates the location of fire hydrants to ensure quick water access during fires. There are approximately 700,000 fire hydrants nationwide, and the maintenance of these signs is primarily undertaken by private companies, funded through advertising income generated from the long horizontal advertising spaces beneath red circular signs. This system is crucial for community disaster prevention but faces challenges due to low recognition of the advertising opportunities, with around 80% of the advertising capacity in Tokyo going unused. While companies are currently managing this system, future sustainability remains a question.

Collaborating with Local Pro Sports Teams

To facilitate easier advertising opportunities for companies that are invested in community safety, Fire Hydrant Signage Co. has established a partnership system linking them with local professional sports teams. This initiative, set to launch in 2024, has already begun collaborating with various sports teams across Japan, including J-League's Montedio Yamagata and the Rakuten Eagles of professional baseball.

Balancing Community Safety Advertising and Sports Support

Under this partnership, businesses that are deeply connected to their communities can display advertisement boards supporting local sports teams. The revenue generated from these advertisements not only assists in managing and maintaining the fire hydrant signage but also contributes to the operational costs of the teams. For businesses, this advertising serves as tangible proof of their commitment to supporting local teams and contributing to community safety initiatives. Fire Hydrant Signage Co. plans to expand partnerships with sports clubs nationwide, further enhancing community disaster preparedness and team support.

Benefits for the Teams

1. Contribution to Local Disaster Prevention: The signs help identify fire hydrant locations, facilitating prompt fire response actions during emergencies.
2. Increased Team Spirit: The installation of signs featuring the team’s name and logo promotes local enthusiasm and support for the club.
3. Operational Funding: A portion of the advertisement revenue will support team operational funds, providing necessary financial resources.

Benefits for the Advertising Companies

1. Support for the Team: Companies can contribute to teams in ways beyond financial donations, with advertisements serving as evidence of their support.
2. Contribution to Community Safety: By maintaining fire hydrant signage, companies engage in meaningful CSR activities, earning gratitude from both the community and the sports team.

Statements from Nankatsu SC and Mars Attack

Nankatsu SC expressed their gratitude, stating, “We are incredibly pleased to have received the support of Fire Hydrant Signage Co. and Mars Attack in placing these advertisement boards which balance community safety with club support. We hope this initiative increases awareness about our club.”

Mars Attack, which specializes in toy-related graphic design, chimed in: “As a small design company based in the same downtown area as Nankatsu SC, we are thrilled to provide the advertising boards and chase our dream within the J-League alongside them. Go, Nankatsu SC!”

Company Profiles

Nankatsu SC

• - Name: Nankatsu SC Co., Ltd.
• - Representative: Yoichi Takahashi (Creator of Captain Tsubasa)
• - Location: 6-18-20 Tateishi, Katsushika, Tokyo
• - Business: Operations of Nankatsu SC, Planning and Management of Sports Events
• - Website: Nankatsu SC

Fire Hydrant Signage Co.

• - Name: Fire Hydrant Signage Co., Ltd.
• - Representative: Tsunasaku Mori
• - Location: 2-2-2 Irifune, Chuo, Tokyo
• - Business: Installation and Management of Fire Hydrant Signage and Advertising
• - Website: Fire Hydrant Signage